Dr. Siva Subramanian. P
Venereology
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Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I have some questions regarding sebum, DHT, and overall severe oily face and scalp.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I have read your query and gone through the list of medications that you are using. According to your complaints, you are suffering from a condition called seborrhea (attachment removed to protect patient identity). Seborrhea is due to excess production of sebum (an oily secretion produced by sebaceous glands of skin).
You can manage it by using face wash twice daily with glycolic acid based face washes. Also, you can apply a moisturizer cream such as Cetaphil moisturizing cream twice daily. You could take an Alcet or Clarigen tablet (Levocetirizine) tablet at bedtime if you suffer from itching.
The Probable causes
Probable diagnosis
Treatment plan
Preventive measures
Patient's Query
Thank you doctor,
I will give anything a try. This condition is so bad. I have to take those oil absorbing sheets with me in my pocket when I go somewhere and excuse myself to the restroom so I am not covered in sebum after 45 minutes. I thought the Avodart Dutasteride medicine would eliminate the oil as my hair shafts that were dormant are growing new hair. I have been taking Dutasteride for five straight months now. So, I must be getting rid of some of that DHT or sebum, correct? The only thing that seems to eliminate the oil for a longer period of time is if I use a charcoal mud type mask. That works, but only for a few hours then I am oily again.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
Dutasteride is an inhibitor of 5-alpha reductase enzymes isotypes 1 and 2, thus reducing DHT (dihydrotestosterone) production. As you have mentioned, it reduces sebum production by reducing DHT. You must continue the drug as per your doctor's advice. Along with the drug therapy, you have to use general measures such as frequent drying with wipes, face washes, and moisturizers.
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Venereology
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